What is Intent-Based Networking?

Earlier this summer, Cisco announced one of the most significant breakthroughs in enterprise networking, an intent-based networking solution that anticipates actions, stops security threats in their tracks, and continues to evolve and learn. Intent-based networking allows IT to move from traditional processes to automating intent, making it possible to manage millions of devices in minutes.

So what does that exactly mean? An intuitive network is similar to how traffic applications like “Waze” work. Waze collects information from various drivers around traffic conditions and then provides dynamic route recommendation and traffic alerts for drivers. If there is a traffic jam, it will re-route. An intuitive network works similarly. Based on network performance from various devices, the network dynamically learns certain patterns and can then anticipate potential breaches or breakdowns before they occur. Software-Defined Access (SD-Access) provides a single, highly secure network fabric that makes it possible.

Why is this important?

By 2020, network engineers will have to manage over one million devices; that is 10 fold from what they manage today. With a traditional network, this will not be scalable. IT will not be able to keep up with the volume of activity taking place on the network and businesses will open themselves up to potential breaches. IT needs the proper intent based network support to help them stay ahead of what is happening so they can focus on more strategic initiatives that will help their organizations grow.

Whether you are migrating your old network or upgrading your current one, Cisco will guide you through the steps of planning and implementing an intent-based network solution. Cisco has a comprehensive lifecycle of advisory, implementation, optimization and technical services to help you on your journey.

Get a glimpse into the new intent-based Digital Network Architecture from Cisco VP Dave West, along with Directors Keith Duffy and Tom Jauch as they showcase the best and brightest features in the new era of networking.